Although England's bid to outstrip New Zealand with a 19th successive Test victory fell short with a Six Nations Grand Slam-denying defeat to Ireland in March, Jones talked of their desire to take on the All Blacks in 2017.

The Australian reiterated his opinion Steve Hansen's side are not the force they were when they successfully defended the World Cup in 2015 and feels a first series win in New Zealand since 1971 could well be on the cards for the Lions.

Jones said: "I believe they are they are for the taking. Their team has gone through a massive regeneration.